Inter boss Chivu admits to having ‘great respect’ for rivals Milan and Juventus

Inter head coach Cristian Chivu has reiterated his respect for AC Milan and Juventus, despite the long-standing rivalry.

Chivu is having an excellent first season in charge of Inter, a club that he represented as a player for many years. Some had concerns about his lack of top flight coaching experience, and yet he has the Nerazzurri eight points clear at the top, albeit with Milan having a game in hand.

If the Rossoneri beat Pisa tonight that will become five points, adding a bit of pressure ahead of their game against the Bianconeri. Napoli also host Roma, so there is a chance that it is a very good weekend for whoever wins.

Chivu spoke at a press conference on the eve of the game at San Siro between Inter and Juventus. Among other comments, the Nerazzurri coach explained the rivalries with Milan and Juve from his own standpoint emphasising that the season is far from over.

“I have great respect for all teams, including our rivals [Juventus and Milan]. The secret is to have good balance: you have to play the same way against everyone, whether it’s Milan, Juve, or Ascoli, always maintaining respect,” he said (via MilanPress).

“Will it be a final blow in the event of a victory? The season is long. A win or a defeat would make the difference, just on a mental level. The race is still long.”